Editor’s Note
This article explores how the widespread feeling of nostalgia, particularly for childhood comforts, is evolving into a more active ‘regeneration’ trend. People are not just reminiscing but actively reviving past experiences, from rewatching classic shows to cooking traditional meals, to create comfort in the present.
Pinterest has seen a surge in nostalgic trends that remind people of their childhood in recent years, as looking back provides a sense of comfort. Many people yearn for simpler times, with 52% of respondents in a survey saying they are rewatching old TV shows and movies. Additionally, about 40% of people are cooking or eating traditional home-cooked meals. Our research indicates this nostalgia is evolving into ‘regeneration,’ where people are connecting past memories with their present selves to prepare for an unpredictable future.
According to Pinterest Predicts™ (our annual report on top trends to watch for the coming year), in 2026, consumers will be weary of the constant waves of information from the world and social media, seeking comfort, reliability, and positive feelings instead. Trends are now growing 4.4 times faster than they were seven years ago. In 2026, tired of being swept along by fads, people will counter this fatigue by prioritizing ‘authenticity,’ as shown through 21 predictions primarily in the following three ways.
Comfort is becoming a mental anchor for consumers. Approximately 55% of people globally say they value finding moments of peace in their daily lives. They are seeking solace in safe spaces, finding their identity in daily routines and nostalgic memories to reclaim mental tranquility.
Consumers are not just blindly imitating trends but are curating and selecting trends that fit them and their ideal selves. In fact, 42% of global respondents say they ‘only adopt trends they think suit them.’
Long-term plans looking five years ahead are no longer common, and most consumers cannot concretely envision even two years ahead. Amidst this, people are valuing a grounded optimism—maintaining positive feelings within realistic bounds, using escapism as a refuge, and living the present positively.
Sydney Stamback, Global Head of Trends & Insights at Pinterest
Gummy Touch: Look, touch, feel the thrill. In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials will be obsessed with gummy-like textures. From jelly cheek makeup to agar desserts, plump nails, and 3D jewelry, ‘squishy’ will be the trend!
Circus Chic: In 2026, personality-driven interiors inspired by the circus will gain attention. Bold stripes like circus tents, sculptural forms, and a touch of clownish playfulness create Circus Chic, where excitement meets elegance.
Retro Kids: Nostalgia is the new. In 2026, why not time-travel to childhood? Retro mini tops, vintage coordinates, 60s classic toys, upcycled baby clothes. This year, Baby Boomers and Gen X will elevate old memories into new trends.
Letter Renaissance: In 2026, letters over social media? Analog communication moving against the digital tide becomes a trend. Gen Z and Millennials will express individuality with playful envelopes, stamps, and elaborate stationery.
Cabbage Craze: In 2026, Baby Boomers and Gen X will be crazy for cabbage. From charred cabbage steaks to kimchi cocktails and healthy tacos, cabbage is set to become the new kitchen star.
The desire to ‘understand and cherish oneself’ manifests mainly in two forms: carefully choosing which parts of one’s identity to show others, and honestly expressing one’s true self. Unbound by past conventions or rules, people in 2026 will not chase trends out of a sense of obligation (‘because everyone is doing it’) but will enjoy them as opportunities to express their individuality and freely edit their identity.
African Bohemian: In 2026, interior trends will fuse African culture with Bohemian taste. Searches for ‘African BOHO living room’ and ‘Afro chic interior’ are surging on Pinterest. African-rooted decor like Nigeria’s colorful fabrics, Ethiopian art, and handwoven baskets bring a new worldview to interiors.
Luxury Mode: Bold and glamorous styles will make a comeback in 2026. Gen Z and Millennials will lead this dazzling trend, adorned in baggy, structured jackets and oversized gold jewelry.
Poet Style: In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials will debut with innovative writer looks. Loose turtlenecks, vintage blazers, messenger bags. The finishing touch? A fountain pen in the pocket, not a smartphone.
Khaki Code: In 2026, adventurer-like styles are set to trend. Khaki shorts, vests full of pockets, functional streetwear—fashion that works in both desert and city—is capturing the attention of Gen Z and Millennials.
Neo Art Deco: In 2026, Art Deco makes a modern comeback. Metallic items and geometric pattern interiors are gaining attention. Retro, bold, yet slightly futuristic. This year, move past the era of minimalism and let this glamorous trend adorn your room.
To heal burnout and recharge energy, many are turning to creative and imaginative escapism. When recently asked ‘what has brought you joy?’, the most common answer was escapism, followed by connecting with nature and self-care. Younger generations, in particular, seem to strongly enjoy fashion and beauty as means of escapism. The proportion of Gen Z who reported gaining emotional connection and creative satisfaction by embracing authentic self-expression is 38% higher than other generations.
Ice Blue: The color that embodies aloof coolness is Ice Blue. In 2026, icy cool tones are predicted to trend. Cool-toned coats, glacier-inspired accessories, and stunningly frozen cocktails will invite you into an icy world.
Nature Mood: In 2026, delicate styles inspired by nature are predicted to captivate Gen Z and Baby Boomers. Freckle makeup like a fawn, nails shimmering like butterflies, fashion carrying the aura of a fox—the forest’s magic will gently color everyday life.
Galactic Look: In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials are heading to space. Holographic interiors, opal eyeshadow shining like the moon, futuristic silhouettes straight out of sci-fi movies—the mood is alien!
Opera Party: Bring the exhilaration of the curtain rising into everyday life. Red curtains, the scent of roses, the sound of strings… In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials will host lavish, opera-themed parties.
Wonder Trip: The 2026 travel trend is ‘exploration.’ From mist-shrouded ruins to light-filled forests and spirals drawn by nature, fairy-tale-like mystical journeys will pique the curiosity of Millennials and Baby Boomers.
Thrill-cation: Say goodbye to lazy beach vacations. In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials will choose vacations filled with thrills. Head out on adrenaline-pumping trips featuring rafting, waterfall descents, and sports events!